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AKB48's Kasai Tomomi announces her graduation from the group

AKB48's Kasai Tomomi (21) has announced her graduation from the group during the "The 2nd AKB48 Kohaku Taikou Uta Gassen" held at TOKYO DOME CITY HALL on December 17th.

Kasai appeared alone in front of fans, and first thanked them for being able to make a solo debut with her single "Masaka (= No way!)" on the 26th. She then stated, "There is one more 'Masaka' announcement to make. I, Kasai Tomomi, am graduating from AKB48."

After apologizing for this sudden announcement, she explained the reason tearfully, "I joined AKB48 when I was 14, and have been in the group for 6 and a half years. It made me learn a lot of things. Now that I received a chance for a solo debut, I would like to send songs with my own ability from now on."

The details on Kasai's graduation, including when it would be, will be announced as soon as it's decided.